The perceptions of adult residents in Delta State, Nigeria on the harms experienced by street children: A survey study

Abstract

Background: Street children are a global public health issue and most common in in low- to middle-income countries like Nigeria. The average life expectancy, future economy, and security of a nation are determined by children, some of whom are on the street, so there is a need for more research. The aim of this research was to explore the perception of adult residents in Delta State, Nigeria, on the harm experienced by street children, targeted at informing policymakers on the need to address the issues faced by street children and improve the nation’s wealth. 

Methods: This quantitative study used a convenience sampling method to recruit adult residents from 4 cities (Okpanam, Sapele, Ughelli, and Asaba, the capital city) in 19 local government areas in Delta State, located in the south-south region of Nigeria. Recruitment was undertaken via WhatsApp groups (community, religious, financial, and professional groups), and data was collected via an online questionnaire. 

Results: 85 people (56% male) responded to the survey, and most (76%) are residents of Asaba from Oshimili South (34%). Street children were perceived negatively (56%), and the major factors that drove them to the street were perceived to be poverty (94%), neglect or lack of family responsibility (86%), orphanhood (69%), and a lack of parental education. Street children aged 5–10 years were mostly seen weekly (76%), and respondents perceived that these children experienced child abuse (92%), drug abuse (91%), ritual killings (82%), road traffic accidents (78%), alcohol abuse (75%), sexually transmitted infection 68% and mental problems (68%), diarrhoea (42%), and 9% of child trafficking, cultism, drug, and crime peddlers. Participants perceived that they often fall ill, and 75% of them have no access to medical care. Residents perceived that the government does not do enough to help street children’s situation, and it was highly recommended that everyone, including government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), have a role to play, but mostly the government should provide free medical care, accommodation, free education, and health awareness programs to the parents and children. Parental financial empowerment and laws to force the government to curb this plight should be put forward. However, lack of funding and support from policymakers due to corruption, lack of cooperation from children and their parents, and illiteracy are perceived barriers to address the plight of street children. 

Conclusion: Financial empowerment for parents and free education for the children would be most helpful in addressing this issue